A group of Panorama High School students is headed to Capitol Youth Day in Des Moines later this month.

Capitol Youth Day, also known as CYD, is held each year to promote civic education in high schools, and it is sponsored by the Iowa Secretary of State’s office.

With this being the first time Panorama social studies teacher Brian Bahrenfuss is taking a group of students to CYD, he explains what he hopes his kids take away from their experience.

“Getting the opportunity to see what happens at the Capitol Building, seeing the importance of voting, what happens there and how we choose these officials, it gives them a greater appreciation for (civic duty).  Even though they may seem disconnected to it at this time with all the other things going in their daily lives, this might give them opportunity to open their eyes a little bit sooner.”

While an official itinerary for their trip has not yet been handed out, Bahrenfuss gives us an idea of what Panorama’s participation will entail.

“The overview they sent is that we’ll meet available members of the state legislature and our elected officials.  We get to participate in an interactive election activity and a mock election.  And then there is also some touring of the Capitol itself and taking part in a student rally.  (Having) not been there before, we’re just going to go see what it’s all about.”

Capital Youth Day activities will run from 9am to 2pm on Wednesday, March 26th. Bahrenfuss says he expects 10 to 12 of his Panorama students to take part.